Welcome to this week’s edition of the “Weekend Recommender”, where we dive into a curated selection of intriguing products that have piqued our interest.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your outdoor ambiance with smart lighting, elevate your portable entertainment setup, or explore the latest in gaming accessories and audio technology, we’ve got you covered.
Join us as we explore a mix of innovative tech gadgets and versatile lifestyle enhancers that promise to enrich your everyday experiences.
All of the products shown below have been sent to us for review consideration. While we haven’t spent an exhaustive amount of time with them, we do feel comfortable recommending them to our audience.
LIFX Outdoor Smart Wi-Fi String Light
The LIFX Outdoor Smart Wi-Fi String Light offers a blend of functionality and ambiance for outdoor spaces. This 12-light string, stretching 24 feet, is ideal for enhancing patios, decks, or backyards. Each of the uniquely addressable LED bulbs can project blended colors and intricate lighting effects using LIFX Polychrome Technology. Whether you prefer subtle sunset hues or vibrant party themes, these lights can transform the atmosphere of your gathering.
Equipped with smart features, the lights integrate seamlessly with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Hey Google, and Siri, enabling effortless voice control. Users can adjust settings through a dedicated smartphone app, providing a convenient way to customize their lighting experience. The Wi-Fi connectivity further enhances control, allowing you to automate the lights or adjust them remotely.
With weatherproof construction, these lights are designed for durability, ensuring they withstand various outdoor conditions. For those looking to create a more extensive setup, up to three kits can be interconnected for a total length of 72 feet. Feedback highlights the vibrant colors and brightness, with the lights expecting a lifespan of 25,000 to 50,000 hours. Priced at $99.00, these smart string lights are an excellent consideration for anyone looking to brighten their outdoor areas.
XGIMI Elfin Flip
Ready to level up your weekend movie marathons or impress your friends with impromptu outdoor film nights? Enter the XGIMI Elfin Flip, a sleek and compact projector that doesn’t skimp on performance or style. With its 1080p resolution and a vibrant 400 ISO Lumens brightness, this little dynamo can transform any room, or tent, if you’re the camping type, into your personal theater. Check it out on XGIMI’s website to see how you can project cinema-sized dreams up to 150 inches wide.
What truly elevates the Elfin Flip, besides its futuristic name, is the thoughtful design geared towards ultimate flexibility and portability. At just over a kilogram, it’s light enough for any travel adventure or bedroom-to-living-room dash. And let’s talk setup: its adjustable stand swings up to 150°, simplifying positioning wherever you decide to screen your masterpiece.
With a lamp life of 25,000 hours, this device is built for long-term use. Dual 3W speakers support Dolby Audio for quality sound, alongside WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 options for seamless connectivity. Notably, it supports Netflix, allowing for direct streaming. Weighing just 1.18 kg and operating quietly (≤28dB) this gadget is perfect for movie nights or gatherings. At $299, it offers a solid blend of features for tech enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
AOC 16T20 Portable Monitor
The AOC 16T20 Portable Monitor ($60) offers a convenient solution for those seeking additional screen space, especially while traveling or working remotely. With a compact 15.6-inch size and Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, it delivers sharp visuals, making it ideal for tasks ranging from presentations to gaming. The IPS panel ensures wide viewing angles, allowing multiple people to view the screen without loss of color or clarity.
Connectivity options include USB-C and Mini HDMI ports, catering to various devices, from laptops to gaming consoles. The inclusion of built-in speakers adds extra convenience, eliminating the need for separate audio equipment. The smart cover doubles as a stand, providing stability during use, while the option for a VESA mount allows for greater flexibility in setup.
Lightweight and portable, the AOC 16T20 is particularly appealing to business professionals, students, and gamers who require a secondary display but want to avoid the bulk of traditional monitors. This monitor seamlessly transitions from a productive work environment to leisurely entertainment, making it a practical companion for anyone looking to enhance their productivity or entertainment experience on the go.
GameSir G7 Pro
The GameSir G7 Pro ($80) gaming controller offers a remarkable combination of features that cater to both casual and competitive gamers. Its tri-mode connectivity ensures compatibility across various platforms, including Xbox, PC, and Android devices, allowing users to switch seamlessly between gaming systems. The innovative GameSir Mag-Res TMR sticks provide smooth control and durability, while Hall Effect analog triggers enhance accuracy and responsiveness.
Incorporating a built-in gyroscope, the controller enables precise mapping for enhanced gameplay on PC. The four macro buttons allow for personalized control setups, making it easier to execute complex maneuvers. With a 1000Hz polling rate available through wired and wireless connections, it delivers a responsive gaming experience.
Customization options are abundant with the swappable faceplate and additional D-pad, catering to individual preferences. A smart charging station is included, providing convenience and care for the device. The built-in 3.5mm audio jack adds to the versatility, making it easy to connect headphones for immersive sound. Available in striking colors, the G7 Pro suits gamers seeking an upgrade to their controller setup.
1MORE ANC TWS Q21
The 1MORE ANC TWS Q21 headphones blend sound quality and intelligent design, making them ideal for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. They feature a 12mm titanium-coated dynamic driver that enhances tonal depth, while support for the LDAC codec delivers high-definition audio up to 40kHz, appealing to those who prioritize true sound fidelity.
The QuietMax intelligent noise cancellation utilizes advanced microphones to filter out unwanted ambient noise, making these earbuds perfect for commutes or busy environments. A dual-microphone array enhances call clarity, ensuring you stay connected without distractions.
Providing up to 5.5 hours of playback on a single charge, and a total of 22 hours with the charging case, the Q21s accommodate busy days. The dual-device connectivity feature means seamless transitions between your phone and laptop, which is a practical addition for multitaskers.
With an IPX5 waterproof rating, these earbuds resist sweat and splashes, making them suitable for workouts or outdoor activities. Intuitive touch controls allow for effortless music and call management.
The 1MORE app offers six professionally tuned sound presets and customizable EQ settings, catering to individual preferences. Available in black or white, these headphones are designed for both style and substance.